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The SAT has officially gone digital worldwide, and international students are saying the move just made the test way more manageable. After launching the digital version globally in March, the College Board reported that over 100,000 students from 179 countries have already taken the new format. More than 80 percent of those test-takers said their experience with the digital SAT was better than the paper version. The updated test is shorter, taking just over two hours, and includes tools like a built-in calculator and a digital timer, making the whole thing faster and more focused. Students also reported feeling less stressed, which is one of the biggest wins of the new format. No more worrying about pencils, paper sheets, or running out of space. Everything’s online, simple, and more flexible. For international students especially, this shift levels the playing field. The SAT is still one of the few ways students can show what they know using the same standards, regardless of what school system they come from. According to the College Board, SAT scores are actually one of the strongest indicators of success in a student’s first year at a U.S. college, more reliable than GPA alone in many cases. This comes at a time when more international students are applying to study in the U.S. In fact, demand is rising fast in countries like India, Nigeria, and Egypt. Recent numbers show that over 1.9 million students from the class of 2024 took the SAT at least once, which means that the test is still relevant. The digital SAT isn’t just more modern. It’s also more secure, faster to complete, and easier to access. For many students applying to U.S. universities from abroad, it just made the whole process a lot more real and a lot less scary.

The SAT Goes Digital Worldwide, and International Students Say It’s a Win

The SAT is now fully digital for international students, offering a shorter, easier, and more accessible testing experience.

In recent times, the UK has become an increasingly popular choice for students from Nepal! While Australia was also a favourable option for them, more and more students are choosing to go to the UK over Australia these days. As a result, universities in the UK are experiencing an influx of Nepalese students. <h3 dir="ltr" style="">A Global Passport to Success</h3>Imagine holding a degree that provides opportunities anywhere in the world. That's precisely what a UK qualification offers! These degrees are globally recognised and highly respected, setting you up for incredible career opportunities.&nbsp; Plus, most UK undergraduate degrees are just three years long, saving you time and money, and letting you jumpstart your career sooner. You can even work part-time (up to 20 hours a week) while you study, helping with expenses and gaining valuable experience. The numbers are truly astounding: in the year leading up to March 2024, over 9,000 Nepalese students secured study visas for the UK, and that number is skyrocketing! Data shows a staggering 200% jump in Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) issued to Nepalese students for the upcoming January 2025 intake alone. This surge is especially important as some other popular destinations have tightened their entry requirements.<h3 dir="ltr" style="">Why the UK is Winning</h3>One big reason for this shift? The UK's more flexible visa system. While some countries require extremely detailed income evidence, the UK allows students to show a "mature" bank account, often supplemented by private education loans. This is a game-changer for many, with a huge 78% of Nepalese students now using education loans to fund their studies. It simply makes the dream of international education feel more within reach. Beyond the practicalities, the UK is home to some of the planet's most prestigious universities, renowned for their academic brilliance and groundbreaking research. For Nepalese students, this means access to a truly high-quality education.<h3 dir="ltr" style="">Smart Choices for Your Wallet</h3>Let's talk about cost. While the UK might seem expensive, there are smart ways to make it affordable. Consider studying outside of London! Cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow offer excellent universities with significantly lower living costs. Many UK universities also offer scholarships and financial aid specifically for international students, including those from Nepal. Another huge help is the widespread acceptance of "Medium of Instruction" (MOI) letters. If your previous studies were taught in English, this letter can often waive the need for additional English language tests, saving you time and money. Studying in the UK isn't just a simple choice; it's about joining a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive community. Nepalese students will meet others from every corner of the globe, broadening their horizons and developing a truly global perspective. UK universities also offer fantastic support services for international students, ensuring you never feel alone on your journey.

Why Nepalese Students Choose The UK

Why Nepalese Students Choose the UK! Discover the reasons and benefits of studying that interest them over going to Australia or other countries.

Big win for all the students who’ve ever said, “Why pick just one major?” Several top UK universities are now introducing targeted scholarships specifically for interdisciplinary majors, and it's not just a passing trend. It's the future of education catching up with reality. Let’s talk facts. <a href="https://www.lis.ac.uk/" rel="nofollow">The London Interdisciplinary School (LIS)</a>, known for its cutting-edge approach to education, is now offering the <a href="https://www.lis.ac.uk/scholarships" rel="nofollow">MASc Innovation Scholarship</a>, a grant of up to £5,000 for students pursuing bold, blended programs like climate science plus design or psychology plus economics. Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/london/university-college-london">University College London (UCL)</a> has expanded funding opportunities for students enrolled in its Arts and Sciences BASc programme, a degree where you can literally mix philosophy, coding, global politics, and beyond. <a href="https://reuben.ox.ac.uk/" rel="nofollow">Oxford’s Reuben College</a> is also stepping up. Their scholarship arm is now prioritising applicants who want to explore complex global issues through interdisciplinary study, such as AI ethics, biosecurity, and sustainable development. These fully funded opportunities are tied to programs that reflect the real-world need for boundary-crossing thinkers. The change signals a clear truth: schools now praise bold ideas as much as tidy tradition. If you've dreamed of mixing code with narrative or lab work with management, 2025 is your moment. Money is flowing, and the UK is doubling its bets on courses that ready learners for tomorrow's blended jobs.

UK Universities Are Rolling Out New Scholarships for Interdisciplinary Degrees

Top UK universities are funding interdisciplinary degrees in 2025 with scholarships for bold majors like AI ethics, climate design, and global innovation.

If you're an international student dreaming of studying in <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia" style="">Australia</a> and sticking around after graduation, here's something you really need to know. Starting from July 2024, the Australian government has officially rolled back the temporary post-study work rights extension that was introduced during the pandemic. This change means that you're no longer offered the extra two-year extension that was previously allowed to international graduates in areas of skills. So, what does that mean for you in 2025? Actually, it depends on your degree level. International students who complete a bachelor’s degree can now stay and work in Australia for up to two years. If you're pursuing a master’s degree, the post-study work visa duration will range between two and three years. This depends on the course. PhD graduates still have the longest stay period, as they have up to three years on the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485). Another major update is the age cap. Previously, international students could apply for post-study work rights until the age of 50. As of the new changes, the age limit has been reduced to 35 for most applicants. There are still exceptions for students from <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/hong-kong">Hong Kong</a> and British National (Overseas) passport holders, as well as for those undertaking research-based qualifications, who may still be eligible under the older age threshold. These updates come as part of Australia’s new Migration Strategy. This strategy aims to tighten international student pathways and prioritise high-skilled graduates for permanent residency options. Of course, this does create fewer opportunities for extended stays, but there are still ways to remain in Australia after your graduation. Graduates can explore regional visa pathways, skilled occupation lists, or employer-sponsored visas, and this depends on their area of expertise. The key takeaway? Australia is still very much open to international students; at the same time, the post-study environment is no longer as generous or guaranteed. If you're planning to study in 2025 or beyond, stay informed, check the latest visa rules regularly, and think ahead about your long-term goals.

Australia’s Post‑Study Work Rights for Graduates 2025

Australia updates post-study work rules: 2025 grads face shorter stays, a lower age cap, and fewer visa guarantees. Plan early and stay informed.

The UAE is stepping up, and students are noticing. The country’s quickly becoming a top pick for international students who are over the whole UK, US, Canada grind, as it offers numerous scholarships, smooth visa rules, and a bunch of solid academic partnerships. Big-name universities like Khalifa University and the American University in Dubai have started handing out scholarships. It’s all part of a bigger move to put the UAE on the global education map, and honestly, it’s working. Recent data shows a sharp increase in international applications this year. Students are tapping out of expensive cities and long visa wait times, and looking for somewhere more practical. The UAE offers faster visa approvals (some in under four weeks), lower living costs, and better post-grad job prospects. That’s a win all around. While some Western countries are tightening their rules and cutting post-study work rights, the UAE is doing the opposite. They're making it easier to get in, stay, and actually build a future. On top of all that, universities are upgrading everything from campus facilities to course content. Most programs are now fully in English, and there are tons of global tie-ins with universities in the US and UK. Internships are being built straight into the degree experience, too. Students already in the UAE say the vibe on campus is super international, the lifestyle’s exciting, and the support systems are solid. To help even more, the Ministry of Education recently launched a new portal where you can check out accredited universities, compare courses, and track scholarships without wasting time. If this momentum keeps going, education experts say the UAE could land a spot in the top five global study destinations. And honestly? That doesn’t sound far off.

UAE Is Becoming the Study-Abroad Hotspot Everyone’s Talking About

Discover why the UAE is rising as a top study destination with scholarships, fast visas, lower costs, global degrees, and strong post-grad prospects.

Big news for all students in the MENA region and Arabic speakers worldwide: Casita now speaks your language! We’re excited to introduce Casita Arabia, your new space for everything student accommodation, now in Arabic. Whether you’re planning to study in the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, or anywhere else around the globe, we’ve got your back in your own language. We know that finding a place to live abroad can feel overwhelming. Between hunting for the right location, managing your budget, and understanding the application process, there’s a lot to take in. That’s why we launched Casita Arabia to make your journey smoother, clearer, and way less stressful. We’re bringing you all the latest updates with our new Arabic Instagram page and student housing tips in a way that’s easy to follow and totally tailored to what you care about. Sometimes you just want to hear things in your own words. So whether Arabic is your first language or just one you’re more comfortable with, Casita Arabia is here to help you feel more confident and informed about your student life abroad. We’ll be posting regularly, answering your DMs, and sharing everything you need to know to start your study abroad journey. So if you're from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the UAE, Morocco, Jordan, or anywhere in between, this one’s for you. Casita’s always been about making student housing simple. Now, we’re doing it in Arabic too. Follow us on Instagram here: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/casita_arabia?igsh=bndqOTh5aG5pa2Ux" style="" rel="nofollow">@Casita_Arabia</a>.

Big News for Arabic-Speaking Students: Casita Arabia Is Here

Big news for all students in the MENA region and Arabic speakers worldwide: Casita now speaks your language. Follow our Casita Arabia page on Instagram today!

Spain has shared some exciting updates for international students. These changes are all about helping students during and after their studies. If you are thinking about studying in Spain, this is great news! <h3 dir="ltr" style="">Work More While You Study</h3>In the past, international students in Spain could only work 20 hours per week while studying. As we speak, the Spanish government has increased this limit. Students can now work up to 30 hours per week. This means you can earn more money and get more work experience while you are still studying. Working more hours helps students pay for their living costs. It also gives them a chance to learn new skills and understand the Spanish work culture. Many students say this will make life much easier for them. <h3 dir="ltr" style="">Stay Longer After You Graduate</h3>Before, after finishing your studies in Spain, you had limited time to find a job. As for now, students can stay for 12 more months after graduation. This gives you more time to look for work in Spain. This change is helpful for students who want to build their careers in Spain. You don't need to leave the country right after finishing your course. Instead, you can stay, apply for jobs, and even start working if you get hired. <h3 dir="ltr" style="">Other Helpful Changes</h3>There is also good news for students who want to study in programs that used to need Spanish language tests. Some universities are now relaxing those rules. This means more programs are available to students who only speak English. These changes are part of Spain’s plan to welcome more international students and make their lives easier. The country wants to be seen as a friendly and supportive place to study and work. So if you're planning to study abroad, Spain might be the perfect choice. You can work more hours during school, stay longer after you graduate, and have more options for courses.

Spain Extends Work Hours and Post-Graduation Stay for International Students

Spain now lets international students work 30 hrs/week, stay 12 months post-study, and access more English-taught programs. Great news for future students!

Egyptian students interested in postgraduate studies in the United Kingdom can apply for funding through the GREAT Scholarships 2025 programme. This initiative is a collaboration between the British Council, the GREAT Britain Campaign, and 72 UK universities. It offers scholarships to students from 15 countries, including Egypt. The programme provides financial support to help cover tuition fees for eligible candidates. Participating Universities and Scholarship Details: <h4 dir="ltr" style="">University of Sheffield</h4>The University of Sheffield is offering a £12,500 scholarship for one Egyptian student enrolling in a one-year taught postgraduate programme starting in autumn 2025.Eligibility Criteria:<ul style=""><li dir="ltr">Must hold an Egyptian passport and reside in Egypt</li><li dir="ltr">Must have an offer for a full-time postgraduate course at the university.</li><li dir="ltr">Must meet academic and English language requirements.</li></ul>The application deadline is 12 May 2025. <h4 dir="ltr" style="">Buckinghamshire New University</h4>Buckinghamshire New University is offering a £10,000 scholarship for an Egyptian student enrolling in a full-time postgraduate taught programme beginning in September 2025.Eligibility Criteria:<ul style=""><li dir="ltr">Must be an Egyptian national residing in Egypt.</li><li dir="ltr">Must hold an offer for a postgraduate programme at the university.</li><li dir="ltr">Must meet academic and English proficiency requirements.</li></ul>The application deadline is 14 June 2025. <h4 dir="ltr" style="">Additional Opportunities</h4>Other UK universities participating in the GREAT Scholarships 2025 programme may also offer funding for Egyptian students. Applicants should review the official British Council website for a complete list of participating institutions and detailed eligibility requirements. These scholarships help reduce tuition costs. Applicants should ensure they meet all requirements and submit applications by the respective deadlines. For more information, visit the official scholarship pages of the universities or <a href="https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships-funding/great-scholarships" style="" rel="nofollow">the British Council’s GREAT Scholarships portal</a>.

Scholarship Opportunities for Egyptian Students in the UK

GREAT Scholarships 2025 offers funding for Egyptian students pursuing postgraduate studies in the UK, with awards up to £12,500 at select universities.

Campus living costs in the UK for universities such as the University of York and the University of Manchester will increase starting with the 2025/26 academic year. This decision was initially opposed, but it was approved after university decision makers decided that it was a worthwhile step, presumably to tackle a financial deficit. &nbsp;On-campus accommodation rent will increase by an average of 9% or more, resulting in various accommodation options reaching nearly £200 per week, bringing it up to the same price as some luxury off-campus accommodation options.&nbsp; This increase may surprise many students who did not see it coming; therefore, it has been announced well in advance to allow ample time for them to plan and save for their preferred accommodation option. This increase in rent will impact first-year university students most of all, as they are the main demographic of those who live in on-campus accommodation options.&nbsp; As this may push students to work more hours during their studies, some universities have recommended that students only work for 20 hours per week maximum, to avoid overworking themselves or neglecting their studies.&nbsp; The University of York is one such university that has recommended avoiding overworking. The University of York Student Union is continuing to oppose this increase for as long as possible. The University of York SU Union Affairs Officer, Lewis Parrey, commented: “It is unforgivable that the University is pushing their financial failures onto the student population, who are already struggling under increased cost of living pressures. “Students have had to take on significant part-time work burdens, with many struggling to afford to pay for groceries, rent, and other basic necessities. This increase in rent prices only worsens the immense pressure students are facing. The students of York deserve better than this from their university.” The Community &amp; Wellbeing Officer, Freddy Russell, also commented: “This is a complicated issue, but it can actually be boiled down to a simple fact: Students have never been more financially vulnerable. Until the university demonstrates complete understanding of this through action, we will keep doing what students’ unions have always and will always do: fight for students.”

The Price of Living on Campus Just Went Up—Here’s Why

On-campus rent at UK universities like York and Manchester will rise by 9%+ in 2025/26, raising concerns over affordability and student financial strain.

Cost of Living in Leicester: An International Student Guide

The UK Flag: Why is it Called the Union Jack?

The Institute of International Education (IIE) is taking a bold step towards promoting access, equity, and diversity in education by establishing a new centre, the Center for Access and Equity. The Center aims to serve as a hub for research, advocacy, and best practices in these areas.IIE, a non-profit organisation promoting international education and exchange programmes, recognises that all access to education is unequal. Factors such as socioeconomic status, race, gender, and geographic location can all impact a student's ability to pursue higher education. The Center will work towards reducing these barriers and promoting more significant equity and inclusion in education.The new centre will focus on several key areas, including expanding access to education for underrepresented groups, promoting diversity and inclusivity in curriculum and programmes, and advocating for policies that promote equity in education.In addition to research and advocacy, the Center will also serve as a resource for educators, administrators, and policymakers seeking to promote access, equity, and diversity in their own institutions. The Center will provide training, tools, and best practices for creating inclusive learning environments that meet the needs of all students.According to Courtney Temple, IIE's Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, the Center's work will allow IIE to be a convener and have a particular focus on access and equity.Temple explained that they aimed to create a unified approach to measuring the progress of their initiatives. Although they had previously implemented programmes and partnerships, they decided to centralise their efforts under one centre to have a better impact by providing focused funding.According to Temple, the Center's first focus area includes the Dickinson College partnership, which began in 2020. She further explained that the latest joint initiatives would also be included in the program and partnership division. Dickinson College has a significant number of people who participate in international exchange. While the partnership was already in place, they wanted to enhance it by leveraging the college's expertise along with IIE's global reach.“They are collaborating to organise a workshop aimed at promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and access in higher education for a global audience. The workshop will concentrate specifically on the concept of intersectionality for higher education professionals. "It will be facilitated and contributed to by experts from the global networks of IIE and Dickinson.” Temple continues.The American Passport Project, which has the goal of providing 10,000 passports to students who may not typically have the opportunity to study abroad within the next decade, will be included in the Center's programme.IIE’s partner universities award passports to eligible first-year undergraduates, primarily those in socioeconomic need. IIE funds the programme and selects recipients in collaboration with partner universities. At least 40 students will be selected in each cycle.&nbsp;The American Passport Project aims to grant 10,000 passports over the next ten years, with the aim of expanding study abroad opportunities to a broader group of students. According to Temple, obtaining a passport is the first step to opening up the possibility of studying abroad.&nbsp;The Center's Global Learning arm will focus on research into language acquisition as a barrier to global learning, study abroad, and future employability. While all three arms of the centre are interconnected, the global learning section will concentrate on research for the time being.The Center's commitment to supporting underrepresented communities will be an integral part of all its activities. Temple will act as the executive sponsor, while Calvert will be the full-time director of the centre.

IIE Launches Center for Access and Equity

The Institute of International Education is taking a bold step towards promoting access, equity, and diversity in education by establishing a new centre.

Plans for the development of a new student centre and 2,400-bed residence hall on the campus of the University of California, San Diego, have been approved by the University of California Board of Regents. According to reports by the San Diego Union-Tribune, the estimated cost of these two projects is said to be around $1.1 billion for development. The student centre under development is set to be a four-building establishment titled Triton Centre and is to be completed in 2026. Of the four buildings, one is set to house the university’s student health, mental health, and well-being services. Additionally, the property will include a space for urgent care, primary care, pharmacy services, and wellness services, as well as a new home for the Counselling and Psychological Services department at the university. Other services and departments to be featured at Triton Centre include an alumni and welcome centre, a multi-purpose building with a 500-person event space, an art gallery, and a student academic resources building. This academic resources building is basically an expansion of the university’s pre-existing Teaching + Learning Commons program with additional facilities for transfer students' success hub, global initiatives, and campus support and administration.Additional announcements included those for the future development plans for the Ridge Walk North Living and Learning Neighbourhood, which is a residence hall project that is set to open in the fall of 2025. Around 2,400 beds are to be offered by the community for undergraduate students. Moreover, the building is set to include an updated administrative and teaching space for the university’s Thurgood Marshall College, the School of Global Policy and Strategy, and the Department of Economics in the School of Social Sciences. 19 new classrooms, a 150-seat lecture hall, study lounges, a co-working space, dining and wellness programming, and outdoor gathering areas are all expected to be included in Ridge Walk. A glass-blowing craft studio, which will be open to the public, is also set to be featured in this project.

Plans for $1.1 Billion Developments Approved at UC San Diego

Plans for the development of a new student centre and 2,400-bed residence hall on the campus of the University of California have been approved.

Oxford's Wolfson College was recently given approval from the city council to build new three-story student accommodation on its current Linton Road site.About 70% of the college's students will be able to live on-site thanks to the new building, which aims to house 50 students who have been "displaced within the city's private housing market".Planning officers have guaranteed that students won't be allowed to park their cars on the site, despite worries expressed by a local resident about increased traffic and pollution. Instead, there will be only three parking spaces instead of 35, two of which will be accessible spots. The third spot will be designated as a drop-off point.The college also promised to protect the River Cherwell, which serves as a bat habitat, without any artificial illumination.Additionally, the three parking spots will be placed on an area of the lawn to the west of the building, and the proposed building will not be attached to any of the existing Grade II listed college campus buildings.The council committee considered the project to be a "more efficient use of the site" as it will make private accommodation, currently used by students, accessible to the public. Also, landscaping improvements will be made.This new project will benefit both the local community and the students.

Accommodation at Wolfson College Receives Approval

Oxford's Wolfson College was recently given approval from the city council to build new three-story student accommodation.

Another student housing is being built after a building on New North Road in Exeter became vacant. This will provide additional 107 beds in the city centre. Beaufort House, a former office building constructed in the late 1980s, is currently vacant; the plan is to have this building converted into 23 self-contained student flats. Adding these flats, there will be accommodation for extra 100 students. The planning officers of the Exeter City Council approved a change of use, which means that the building does not need to be presented to a committee of councillors first.The building will be divided, where the ground and upper floors will be reconstructed into 21 student apartments and two studios, which in total will be 107 bedrooms. The basement will be turned into back-of-house facilities. A double bed and an en-suite bathroom will be provided in each room, exceeding the council's minimum space requirements!“The proposed accommodation offers an alternative to returning students who might normally occupy shared houses”, the owners of Lexeter LLP remarked while talking about the planning application.“Exeter University has a student population of over 27,000 students. It is recognised that both the university and its students have a positive impact on the local economy and the cultural and social vitality of the city. There are recognised benefits, to both student occupants and local residents, in providing accommodation in purpose-designed and managed accommodation. The proposed 107 student bedrooms in the scheme will help to reduce the number of students in unmanaged properties and potentially release housing back to local families”, they added. After approving the application, the planning officers said, “The site is considered to be a suitable location, on the edge of the city centre, with good public transport links and within walking distance of the university”.This project is set to be managed by Campbell Property, which is already operating in Exeter, among other cities in the United Kingdom.

Beaufort House into a Student Housing

Another student housing is being built after a building on New North Road in Exeter became vacant.

In an effort to alleviate the current pressure on student housing in Dublin, UCD is considering partnering with private landlords. The university currently has 41,000 beds; however, this number is not expected to meet the September intake's demand. This increasing demand for student housing not only affects the number of Dublin student accommodations available but also raises the city's student housing costs.This situation is why multiple local students have been forced to stay with their parents or drive and commute long distances. This short-term solution is not convenient for everyone, especially international students.The university has thought of an innovative way to tackle this problem that might solve the housing shortage by leasing directly from homeowners. This new solution will go hand-in-hand with the university's already-provided accommodations. Another option to be considered includes shared private rooms, which will add more options for students seeking student housing in Dublin. It will not only alleviate the shortage and add variety to room options but also a variety in the rental price. These shared rooms are expected to help cover the students' stay for 12 to 18 months.The university also aims to facilitate the process for students by renting out private options and subletting them to students. The university's residence services would also extend to these new options for student housing in Dublin. Even though these discussions between the university and these landlords are still at an early stage, it is still a promising step taken by the university.Another positive step taken by the Higher Ministry of Education is their plan to invest €40 million to directly fund 405 beds for students looking to study at the Dublin City University under the "Housing for All "scheme. The Higher Ministry of Education is also working on similar projects for other universities in Dublin, such as the previously mentioned UCD and other universities, such as University College Cork and Trinity College in Dublin.

UCD to consider private lets for student housing in Dublin

In an effort to alleviate the current pressure on student housing in Dublin, UCD is considering partnering with private landlords.

The Japanese government has announced an ambitious goal of attracting 400,000 international students to the country by the year 2033. The announcement was made by Japanese PM Fumio Kishida in the fifth meeting of the Council for the Creation of Future Education. The plan also aims to increase the number of Japanese students studying abroad to 500,000. &nbsp;Japan has been working to increase its international student population in recent years, with a target of 300,000 by 2020. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted these plans, with many students unable to travel to Japan due to travel restrictions and border closures.Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the government is determined to achieve its new target of 400,000 international students by 2033. The plan includes increasing the number of scholarships and financial aid available to international students, as well as expanding English-language instruction and promoting the country's unique culture and traditions.Prime Minister Kishida emphasized the importance of promoting the English language and cultural education, reviewing residence status, and providing job assistance to international graduates and returning Japanese students to achieve this goal.&nbsp;Benjamin McCracken, director of JCMU’s Hikone Campus, expressed concerns over whether Japanese universities can support this many students, especially regarding their access to medical support. Kishida also suggested promoting "international exchange with G7 members" to achieve the targets.According to recent statistics, as of May 1, 2021, the number of international students in Japan was 242,444, which is a 13.3% decrease compared to the previous year. China, Vietnam, and Nepal are the top three countries from which international students come to Japan.According to McCracken, Japan needs to offer more English-language programmes if it wants to reach its goals. He added that while there is still a lot of interest in the Japanese language, students from the US are becoming less interested in intensive Japanese language learning.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Japan's ambition to have 500,000 Japanese students studying abroad is also ambitious, but Rossi from Go! Go! Nihon stated that it is unclear how Japan plans to achieve this.&nbsp;McCracken suggested that universities should ease back on strict schedules and the government should integrate education abroad into degrees before encouraging students to go abroad for full programs. He also suggested that allowing students to study other languages in high school besides English could help.&nbsp;Kishida's announcement comes after reports that more overseas nationals are staying in Japan than ever before. According to data, over 40% of foreign nationals have lived in Japan for more than three years, and the number of international graduates choosing to stay in Japan is increasing.&nbsp;However, Japan must offer better visa provisions to compete with other post-study work destinations. Currently, incentives for foreign workers are low, and McCracken suggests lowering taxes or offering other incentives to attract talented individuals.&nbsp;Although interesting, the plan proposed by Kishida is not enough for inbound or outbound student mobility, as there is no culture of accountability and universities, language schools, and agencies are left to figure out how to reach the targets.&nbsp;To increase the number of Japanese students studying abroad, the government needs to provide financial support not only for short-term students but also for those pursuing degrees abroad. Kishida indicated that a second recommendation by the education minister Keiko Nagaoka would be made at the end of April.

Japan Plans to Welcome 4,000 Int’ls by 2033

The Japanese government has announced an ambitious goal of attracting 400,000 international students to the country by the year 2033.

Global Student Accommodation (GSA), one of the global frontrunners in PBSA, is set to receive an £85m loan from the banking and wealth management organisation, Investec, after a recent declaration. This loan is set to help GSA finance the refurbishment of five of their PBSA properties in the UK. Current students’ needs and the support of their well-being during their ongoing study period are to be addressed through this refurbishment work that will also concentrate on enhancing the living quarters and common areas. A comment was made by Sebastian Walley on behalf of Investec Real Estate, saying the following: "We will continue to fund PBSA schemes in those cities where the demand dynamics remain compelling, reflecting our conviction in the sector's long-term outlook due to its structural undersupply, demographic tailwinds, and defensive characteristics in this inflationary environment. GSA is a world-renowned player in the PBSA space, and we look forward to supporting them on future opportunities."Operating in nine countries, GSA is present in over 70 of the leading educational cities in the world. In the UK specifically, GSA is in charge of five properties that are located in London, Newcastle, Lincoln, Nottingham, and Sheffield. These properties provide a total of 1,460 beds to students and are managed by Yugo, GSA’s operating partner. Investec has been in the business of student accommodation lending for quite some time. Since 2011, the company has financed around 22,000 beds across 55 schemes in 23 different cities in the UK. And in 2021, Investec Real Estate has achieved a significant milestone by surpassing the £1bn mark in student accommodation lending.Reaching a record high of £7.2bn in 2022, the investment in the UK student accommodation sector represents a 69% increase from the previous year, which is also significantly higher than the long-term average of £4.1bn over the preceding five years.The Global Head of Capital Markets at GSA, John Jacobs, also made a comment on the matter that went as follows: "I am delighted to have formed this new relationship with Investec. Completing this refinancing amidst challenging market conditions demonstrates lenders' confidence in the strength and resilience of the PBSA sector and their continued appetite to support high-quality, stable portfolios with experienced owners and operators. I look forward to continuing to work with the Investec team as we implement our growth strategy in the UK."

Investec Grants an £85m PBSA Loan to GSA

Global Student Accommodation is set to receive an £85m loan from the banking and wealth management organisation, Investec, after a recent declaration.

Crown House, an abandoned old government building in the heart of Huddersfield, is being converted into flats with no exterior changes.Prior to its closing in 2019, the 11-story structure housed the Huddersfield Job Centre.The building was originally used by the Department for Work and Pensions after it was built in the 1970s.Several planning proposals have been made since the closure, but none have been approved until now.Abode Manchester 2 Ltd has applied to Kirklees Council for permission to build 198 studio flats over nine storeys for student-only living accommodation.The studios will vary in size from 20 to 31 square meters and will include en-suite bathrooms, desk areas, kitchen facilities, built-in storage, and modern design features.According to the planning application, the building will cater to international students, and new frontage cladding will complement the National Health Innovation Campus's design.The interior of the structure is said to be in poor condition and has apparently been vandalized.A decision on the application is expected in May 2023 after the public consultation period on the plans ended in early March.This new addition to the student housing market in Huddersfield is highly beneficial to students, as the building is located in a vibrant area, close to several facilities and institutions.

Crown House In Huddersfield To Be Converted Into Student Housing

Crown House, an abandoned old government building in the heart of Huddersfield, is being converted into flats with no exterior changes.

Student Housing

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Stay up-to-date with the latest student news in the UK. Casita's team brings you top news written by professionals.